Volunteering Northland’s Third Annual Fair A Great Success

Volunteering Northland’s Third Annual Fair A Great Success
Story by Janine Duncan

Whangarei Central Library was buzzing with activity on the morning of Saturday the 20th of September, as community organisations and the general public gathered for Volunteering Northland’s annual Volunteer Fair.

Following the success of the inaugural event in 2023, the fair has become an annual fixture on Volunteering Northland’s calendar. It is designed to build connections, raise public awareness of the diversity and number of community organisations in Northland. It offers an opportunity for aspiring volunteers to find a role that aligns with their values, skills and interests.

Opening with a welcoming speech from Mayor Vince Cocurullo, the public were then free to browse any one of the 25 stalls representing organisations from a variety of sectors. As in previous years, the free and family friendly event offered spot prizes and fun activities such as micro volunteering, a treasure hunt and Christmas bag sewing and colouring in stations. Additionally, performances by NUR Belly dance, and singers Evelynn Nutbean and ALOFAU entertained fair goers, ensuring something of interest for all ages.

This year, discussion panels were held, where 10 volunteers from a diverse range of organisations and roles reflected on their volunteering experiences. Emceed by Frankie Johns, the panellists highlighted the benefits of volunteering; such as the sense of enrichment, empowerment and satisfaction gained from helping others, opportunities to learn and grow, and the social interaction and connection derived from being part of a community.

Despite receiving no funding this year, the event was made possible through the amazing support and goodwill from the Whangarei community. Verena Pschorn (Volunteering Northland Community Connections Co-ordinator) considered the event a great success, and the organisation intends to hold it again next year. Approximately 300-400 people were in attendance, many spot prizes for completing micro volunteering activities were awarded, and the treasure hunt proved very popular.

Overall, the fair received very positive feedback from both organisation representatives and the general public. When asked about their favourite aspects, comments included “I enjoyed meeting new people, organisations, and learning about the meaningful work they do”, “the welcoming atmosphere”, and “the amazing conversations with community members, raising awareness for our organisation, and networking with other organisations and how we can support each other.”

Finally, Volunteering Northland would like to thank the 25 organisations from across Northland that attended and held stalls; sponsors PAK'nSAVE Whangarei, Bob Cafe Whangarei, Domino's Pizza Water Street, Whangārei Aquatic Centre, Authentic Flavours, and Handsome Frog Gourmet Foods for assisting with spot prizes; our wonderful volunteers, panellists and performers, as well as our Whangarei Central Library and the librarians. Collectively, your generous contributions made this a highly successful event, and brought our community closer together.